Molecular Evolution and Information

Eukaryotes and Prokaryotes

Figure 3.15 depicts a eukaryotic and a prokaryotic cell. The DNA in eukaryotes is bundled together with proteins to form chromosomes. This DNA resides inside the nucleus which is separated form the rest of the cell by the nuclear membrane. In prokaryotes, there is no nucleus. The DNA is usually one large circular ring, and the cell contains much less DNA. Prokaryotes are very simple organisms such as bacteria. The total information contained in their DNA is an order of magnitude less than the information found in eukaryotes. The mitochondria in eukaryotes converts sugar into ATP - the fuel for the cell. In bacteria, proteins in the cell membrane create ATP.

Figure 3.15: Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

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